Leviticus 11:46

This [is] the law of the beasts, and of the fowl, and of every living creature that moveth in the waters, and of every creature that creepeth upon the earth:

This is the law {H8451} of the beasts {H929}, and of the fowl {H5775}, and of every living {H2416} creature {H5315} that moveth {H7430} in the waters {H4325}, and of every creature {H5315} that creepeth {H8317} upon the earth {H776}:

"'Such, then, is the law concerning animals, flying creatures, all living creatures that move about in the water, and all creatures that swarm on the ground.

This is the law regarding animals, birds, all living creatures that move in the water, and all creatures that crawl along the ground.

This is the law of the beast, and of the bird, and of every living creature that moveth in the waters, and of every creature that creepeth upon the earth;

Commentary

Context of Leviticus 11:46

Leviticus 11:46 serves as a concise summary statement, marking the conclusion of the detailed dietary laws given to ancient Israel. This verse culminates the extensive regulations found throughout Leviticus chapter 11, which meticulously distinguishes between clean and unclean animals, fowl, sea creatures, and creeping things. These laws were not merely about hygiene, though that may have been a secondary benefit, but primarily about establishing a distinct identity for the Israelites as a holy people set apart for God. They served as a constant reminder of their covenant relationship with the Lord and the need for purity in all aspects of life, reflecting God's own holiness.

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority: The phrase "This is the law" emphasizes that these commands originate directly from God, not human convention or cultural preference. It underscores the divine origin and binding nature of these dietary regulations for the Israelite nation.
  • Holiness and Separation: The core purpose of these laws was to teach Israel about holiness and separation, distinguishing them from surrounding pagan nations and their practices. By adhering to these unique dietary restrictions, the Israelites physically demonstrated their commitment to God's covenant.
  • Comprehensive Scope: The verse explicitly lists "beasts," "fowl," "creature that moveth in the waters," and "creature that creepeth upon the earth," indicating the comprehensive nature of God's commands, leaving no category of animal food unaddressed within the given regulations.

Practical Application

While Christians are no longer bound by these specific dietary laws, as their ceremonial purpose was fulfilled in Christ (Colossians 2:16; Mark 7:19; Acts 10:15), the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant. This verse reminds us of God's desire for His people to live distinctly and to seek purity in all areas of life – spiritual, moral, and physical.

  • It encourages us to consider what we "consume" in terms of influences, entertainment, and relationships, and to choose those things that align with a holy life dedicated to God.
  • The Old Testament laws, even those no longer literally practiced, serve as a profound testament to God's character and His call for His people to be holy as He is holy.
  • Understanding these laws helps us appreciate the depth of God's covenant with Israel and the freedom and spiritual purity offered through the New Covenant in Christ.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Leviticus 7:37

    This [is] the law of the burnt offering, of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the trespass offering, and of the consecrations, and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;

  • Leviticus 14:54

    ¶ This [is] the law for all manner of plague of leprosy, and scall,

  • Ezekiel 43:12

    This [is] the law of the house; Upon the top of the mountain the whole limit thereof round about [shall be] most holy. Behold, this [is] the law of the house.

  • Leviticus 15:32

    This [is] the law of him that hath an issue, and [of him] whose seed goeth from him, and is defiled therewith;
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